Home Help: Summer remodels to consider

The longer days and warmer weather make summer the ideal season to complete a home improvement project. While the season lasts, consider tackling these remodeling jobs:

Outdoor kitchen - An outdoor kitchen can add value to the home as well as decrease the homeowner’s utility costs. These additions can be tailored to the homeowner’s preferences by equipping the station with appliances well beyond the basic grill including sink, refrigerator and dishwasher.

Deck addition - The always-popular deck is one of the most cost-effective ways of adding extra space to the home, since building a deck doesn’t generally include plumbing and electrical work. Decks can also boost curb appeal and, depending on the material, be easy to maintain.

— HomeAdvisor

Home-Selling Tip

A can of black, oil-rubbed bronze or brushed nickel spray paint can be used to update metal house numbers, railings and light fixtures before listing your home. The difference is noticeable, quick and a low investment of money.

— Brandpoint

Did You Know

Taking root

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, planting a tree can increase your home’s value, cut energy costs and be beneficial to your family’s health. For added color, consider planting some perennial flowers, such as day lilies, tulips and roses.

— Brandpoint

Decorating Tip

Accent wall

Instead of redoing an entire room, try painting one wall as an accent wall. This will create a new focal point for the room that can be easily achieved by going a shade darker, brighter or complementing the existing wall color.

— Brandpoint

Garden Guide

Keep compost damp

If compost becomes too dry, the helpful bacteria it uses will die. Pay special attention during the hot, dry summer months and give the compost a thorough soaking if it begins to appear crusty or brittle.